NFL draft in NIL era includes players taking a pay cut to go from college to the pros
Summary
The 2026 NFL draft features players who may earn less money in the NFL than they did in college due to new rules that allow college athletes to share in team revenues. Top college players, especially quarterbacks, have earned over $1 million through these deals, but NFL rookie contracts often start lower. This situation highlights players' love for the game, beyond just the money.Key Facts
- The NFL minimum salary for a drafted rookie in 2026 is $915,120.
- New college revenue sharing means top college players can earn up to $20.5 million from their teams before turning pro.
- Many high-earning college players, mostly quarterbacks, may take a pay cut when joining the NFL.
- Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza was the No. 1 draft pick with an NFL deal worth about $57 million total.
- Alabama’s Ty Simpson was picked No. 13 with a deal worth about $25.4 million total.
- Other quarterbacks projected to be drafted later include Drew Allar, Taylen Green, and Cade Klubnik, who likely will earn less than in college their first pro year.
- Nearly half of the top 50 college players valued for their name, image, and likeness (NIL) money in 2025 were quarterbacks.
- NFL teams say the new pay situation helps show which players truly love football and work hard beyond just money.
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